About SHARP

What is the SHARP program?

The SHARP Program is a comprehensive integration and transformation of
the Army's Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Program and
Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) efforts. The SHARP Program reinforces
the Army's commitment to eliminate incidents of sexual harassment and sexual
assault through awareness and prevention, training, victim advocacy, reporting,
and accountability.

What has the Army done?

On February 6, 2004, the Acting Secretary of the Army established a task force to
review Army policies on reporting and addressing allegations of sexual assault.
The task force findings led to the development of the Sexual Assault Prevention
and Response (SAPR) program which included a new victim advocacy component and
a coordinated sexual assault response effort.

With sexual harassment being determined as a potential precursor to
sexual assault, the Secretary of the Army directed the Army SAPR office
to restructure and integrate POSH, forming the Army's SHARP Program Office.

In September 2008, the Army launched Phase I of a sexual assault prevention
strategy at the first annual SHARP Summit. Phase I, "Committed Army Leadership",
was the first of four integrated phases. Phase II, "Army-wide Conviction" began
during third Summit held in April 2010.

In April, the Army will observe Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Soldiers,
civilians, and family members are encouraged to re-dedicate their efforts toward
preventing sexual assault and creating a positive climate enhanced through the
"I. A.M. Strong" campaign.

The Army will continue several training initiatives
including Mobile Training Teams to train more than 24,000 command selected unit SHARP
personnel. Additionally, TRADOC and the SHARP Program are collaborating to upgrade and
integrate POSH and SAPR training in all Professional Military Education and Civilian
Education System courses.

Why is this important to the Army?

Achieving cultural change to stop sexual harassment/assault will enhance military
readiness, productivity and unit cohesion. The annual summit is an effective venue to
reinforce SHARP training and share prevention strategies, messages and ideas.

Mission Statement

The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program reinforces the
Army's commitment to eliminate incidents of sexual assault through a
comprehensive policy that centers on awareness and prevention,
training and education, victim advocacy, response, reporting,
and accountability. Army policy promotes sensitive care and
confidential reporting for victims of sexual assault and accountability
for those who commit these crimes.